Norway Imposes Near Ban On AI In Elementary School

Norway will largely prohibit generative AI use for elementary kids ages 6 to 13 beginning with the new school year, while allowing limited, teacher-supervised use for older students. The government says the restrictions are intended to prevent children from skipping foundational reading, writing, and mathematics skills amid declining test scores.

Reuters reports: Facing a broad decline in education test scores, the government in 2024 banned smartphones from schools and has given teachers back more powers to enforce discipline in the classroom.

Using AI increases the risk that young children skip important steps in their education, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere told a press conference on Friday. "The most important thing in school is that our children learn to read, write and do mathematics," Stoere said, adding that the new standards will be imposed from the new school year beginning in late August.

Age-Based Restrictions

• First through seventh grade (ages 6 to 13): As a general rule, should not be using AI.
• Lower secondary school (ages 14 to 16): Can cautiously adopt tools under teachers' supervision.
• Upper secondary education (ages 17 to 19): Should learn to use AI appropriately so that they are prepared for further education and work.

Related Measures

In a related statement, the Norwegian government also said it would propose legislation to fund the use of more books in classrooms, reversing the trend towards computer tablets.